WhatsApp Introduces Usernames to Chat Without Sharing Phone Numbers

WhatsApp announced a major update allowing users to communicate without revealing their phone numbers by using unique usernames. Starting now, users can reserve a personalized username, which will enable messaging and calls without sharing their phone number. This feature aims to enhance privacy, especially when interacting with new contacts or joining group chats where users prefer not to disclose their phone numbers.

The username system will roll out gradually over the coming months, with the option to reserve usernames in any language. Users can also link their existing Instagram or Facebook usernames to maintain consistent online identities, particularly useful for content creators, small businesses, and organizations. WhatsApp encourages private users to create distinct usernames different from their social media handles.

To further protect privacy, users can set a four-digit key code that others must enter to initiate a chat with them. Existing contacts will still see phone numbers as usual, but new contacts will only see usernames if the feature is activated. Despite this change, a phone number is still required to create a WhatsApp account.

WhatsApp highlighted that the username feature has been one of the most requested by users worldwide and expects it to become very popular. Users can reserve their username now via Settings > Account > Username, with notifications to follow when the feature becomes fully available globally for both private and business accounts.